Wyomissing, Pa. – Customers Bank announced that it has secured a $650,000 Affordable Housing Program (AHP) grant from the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLBank) of Pittsburgh for Safe Haven, an affordable housing development in Reading that is sponsored by Hope Rescue Mission.

The Safe Haven project will rehabilitate the first three floors of a building currently housing the Hope Rescue Mission located on North 6th Street in Reading, Pa. The project will preserve 117 shelter and transitional affordable housing units for very low-income residents, including long-term residents in a recovery program, and some who have progressed to employment. The program also includes services to provide individuals with the emotional, educational, spiritual and economic tools they need for independence.

“Homelessness is a problem that affects the entire community,” said Rob Turchi, Executive Director of Hope Rescue Mission. “Partners like Customers Bank help us provide critical programs and services to help homeless individuals find housing, employment and the help they need to get back on their feet. This is how we build thriving communities.”

Customers Bank secured the grants in 2016 through the FHLBank of Pittsburgh, one of 11 FHLBanks nationwide, on behalf of Hope Rescue Mission, a place of refuge for the homeless in Berks County since 1894 that offers residential programs to support men with transitioning back into the community as productive and independent individuals.

“Customers Bank is pleased to build up our partnership with Hope Rescue Mission and support the vision of Rob and his team,” said Richard Ehst, President and COO Customers Bank. “This is a critical project and we appreciate the support of our partners at the FHLB of Pittsburgh in approving our application for this investment in the Berks County community.”

The Safe Haven project currently provides food, clothing and shelter to approximately 70 men daily and offers use of a computer lab, gym, laundry room and shower facilities in addition to social services and programs.